Ryan Grubb only got one season as offensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks. The NFL squad, where he landed following Kalen DeBoer’s departure from Washington to take over Alabama football, struggled in 2024, and Grubb wound up fired because of it.

A hard moment for any coach. However, it might wind up being the Crimson Tide’s gain for 2025.

“What an opportunity to be a coordinator in the NFL,” DeBoer said. “I thought he had a great year, did an amazing job. He was certainly ready and prepared for it. But things happen for a reason. Him getting the chance to come here and just add to our staff at the level you’re talking about with an elite, elite offensive mind. Our familiarity with each other, the efficiency we have when it comes to the day-to-day work off season, in season, it certainly helps us gain even more momentum going into this fall.”

Grubb and DeBoer have worked together throughout their careers, dating back to Sioux Falls. When DeBoer replaced Nick Saban, Grubb initially joined his staff, before jumping on the chance to stay in Seattle.

DeBoer said the time in the pros helped Grubb better contribute to the staff after finally joining up with the Crimson Tide.

“The rest of the staff has been awesome in how they embrace Ryan Grubb coming in,” DeBoer said. “The players have, as well. Then Ryan’s hit the ground running and added some things on the things he’s learned. When you go through your career, every year you’re going to get better if you have the right mindset.

“There’s no place you’re going to get better and be put in tough spots than in the NFL. So love what he’s brought on top of what our system has always been and how we’ve evolved to make us even better this fall.”

During Grubb’s one-year NFL stint, Nick Sheridan got the nod as the Tide’s offensive coordinator. Sheridan remained on staff when Grubb returned, as co-OC and quarterbacks coach.

According to DeBoer, there is no animosity between the two assistants.

“He and Ryan Grubb, their relationship is amazing,” DeBoer said of Sheridan. “Again, it goes back to two strong years that they had together putting together elite offenses there at Washington, too. Seeing these guys come together, pick each other’s brains. Nick has been able to share along with the rest of the staff, JaMarcus Shephard, with coach Grubb, Ryan Grubb, what they felt, why they did things. Myself as well. It’s helped us take those next steps.”

Alabama opens preseason camp on July 30. The Crimson Tide will face Florida State on Aug. 30 to open the 2025 season.